Implications and measurement of inclusive green innovation: Empirical analysis of 277 prefecture-level cities in China

Abstract

Inclusive green innovation (IGI) leverages innovation to harmonize economic, social, natural, and human systems to achieve sustainable green development. This study introduces IGI, outlines its connotations, and constructs an evaluation framework encompassing four dimensions: economy, society, ecology, and innovation. Using data obtained from 277 prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2020, this study employs entropy-weighted TOPSIS, kernel density estimation (KDE), Gini coefficients, and Moran’s I to analyze spatial patterns and the evolutionary dynamics of IGI. The findings show that: (1) Green innovation is a key driver for sustainable development and can balance economic and environmental objectives while emphasizing social inclusivity, ensuring broad participation by disadvantaged groups and equitable sharing of the benefits of green innovation. (2) China’s IGI index has recently grown significantly, with Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen demonstrating strong growth performance. However, disparities between cities and across dimensions have widened. (3) Regional disparities in IGI initially decreased during the study period, but they have recently increased, with eastern regions showing the most pronounced intra-regional differences. The spatial clustering of IGI follows a reverse U-shaped growth trend, including strong clustering effects in major economic regions, such as Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Pearl River Delta, as indicated by Local Moran’s I. Policymakers should prioritize IGI development focusing on the role of disadvantaged groups in green innovation. It is essential to strengthen technology, policies, environmental conditions, and social interactions for creating opportunities for participation and benefit-sharing, ultimately providing stronger support for sustainable green development.